As adolescents, women fall largely into three camps. Those of us who are obsessed with makeup and pinch and pilfer lipsticks from our mums and older sisters, those of us who go for a slick of mascara to fit in, and those who couldn't give a hoot about makeup. Whichever of those sounds the most familiar to you, if you do wear makeup, chances are your look day hasn't evolved much since your teenage years.
A new study by Max Factor of almost 5,000 women across the globe found that 30% of women had worn the same makeup since they were teenagers - as we age and our spending power increases, the brands might have become fancier, but on the whole, our looks often stays the same.
Their 'Glamour Expose' found that even though we have so much more access to better beauty education via Instagram and YouTube, we're still pretty reticient to try new looks. In fact, as many as 63% of women said they felt stuck in a makeup rut, with the vast majority admitting that a fear of 'getting it wrong' or 'looking ridiculous' kept them sticking to what they knew.
Yet, almost all the women surveyed said they would love to shake up their look. Pat McGrath legendary makeup artist, Max Factor’s Global Creative Director commented "It’s no surprise that women are inspired to revamp their look. In our new connected world everyone has instant insider access to the transformative power of make-up. Beauty is no longer so prescriptive, it’s ever-changing. Individualism and uniqueness in beauty has become the new word in luxury."
Here at Grazia, we're all for shaking it up. Of course, if you don't have access to a Kardashian-esque glam squad, a total overhaul may seem a bit daunting, but if there's one thing we've learnt from our collective years backstage and on fashion shoots, it's that there really are no rules. Sure, one rubbish boyfriend might have said he doesn't like red lipstick, but it's your face, not his. Someone's told you smokey eyes are dated? Who cares! Practice in the privacy of your own home, play around with makeup, and most importantly, have fun.
If you're willing to splash out a bit, book an appointment with a makeup artist with your favourite brand and get them to show you some simple, easy-to-recreate looks. Or choose a star style you like, find their makeup artist (if they're selfie-happy, they'll be tagged in a post) and follow their Instagram for tips and tricks. It's time to get out of your comfort zone.
See our top five makeup artists to follow in the gallery below...
Best MUAs To Follow
1 of 5@AnastasiaBeverlyHills
The official hub of the cult brand, the ABH Instagram page is full of cool, dramatic looks with each product used detailed in full.
2 of 5@AniaMilczarczyk
This Aussie makeup artist is often referred to as the 'queen of highlighting', thanks to her gorgeous, glowing work. Follow for nymph-like beauties and handy tips.
3 of 5@MakeUpByMario
The man responsible for bringing contouring to the masses, Mario Dedivanovic is largely responsible for the Kardashian's sculpted, polished looks. Also works with a host of other young Hollywood starlets and always credits brands and products.
4 of 5@LisaEldridge
A legend in the makeup world, Lisa is a true British gem. Follow her YouTube channel too, for helpful, practical and non-judgemental tutorials.
5 of 5@CTilburyMakeup
Founder of the arguably the best breakout beauty brand of recent years and one of the most in-demand makeup artists, Charlotte Tilbury's Instagram is a hub of inspiration and tips.